Why Gender Equity Matters: Creating a More Inclusive Tomorrow

Why Gender Equity Matters: Creating a More Inclusive Tomorrow

Introduction: The Power of Fairness

Imagine a society where everyone—regardless of gender—has an equal shot at education, employment, leadership, and dignity. That’s not just a utopian ideal; it’s the foundation of a more inclusive tomorrow. At UNADEV, our mission in Buea, South West Region of Cameroon, is rooted in one clear truth: gender equity matters.

In countless communities across Cameroon, women and girls still face barriers that limit their potential. But when these barriers are broken, the ripple effect benefits everyone—families grow stronger, economies thrive, and peace becomes more sustainable.

What Is Gender Equity—and Why Is It Different from Equality?

While gender equality focuses on giving everyone the same resources or opportunities, gender equity goes a step further: it recognizes that different people have different needs and circumstances. It’s about leveling the playing field so everyone can succeed—not just survive.

As UNICEF explains, “Gender equity means fairness of treatment for women and men, according to their respective needs.” This may mean allocating more resources to girls’ education or providing maternity protections in the workplace.

A Real-Life Story: Linda’s Path to Leadership

Linda, a 17-year-old girl from Buea, was once on the verge of dropping out of school due to financial hardship and cultural pressure to marry young. Through a UNADEV-sponsored scholarship and mentorship program, she stayed in school, graduated, and is now studying to become a teacher.

“I want to help girls like me believe in themselves,” Linda says. Her story is just one of many that shows how empowering girls leads to long-term community development.

Why Gender Equity Is Crucial for Development

According to a World Bank study, countries that invest in girls' education and women's empowerment see faster economic growth, lower infant mortality rates, and greater political stability. In fact, the McKinsey Global Institute estimates that advancing gender equity could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.

Here in Cameroon, many women and girls still face unequal access to resources. That’s why UNADEV focuses on education, vocational training, and gender sensitization campaigns—to ensure no girl is left behind.

Breaking the Cycle: Education as the Game-Changer

Education remains one of the most powerful tools for achieving gender equity. Girls who are educated marry later, earn more, and raise healthier families. Yet, in rural areas of Cameroon, cultural norms and poverty still prevent many girls from completing primary school.

By providing didactic materials, training workshops, and scholarships, UNADEV helps ensure that every child—especially girls—has a chance to succeed.

What the Experts Say

Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Executive Director of UN Women, once said:

“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.”

Her insight is echoed by global data, but it also resonates deeply within our local communities. When we educate a girl or support a woman entrepreneur, we are investing in generations of progress.

Acknowledging the Challenges

Critics sometimes argue that focusing too much on women can sideline men. But gender equity does not mean disadvantaging one group to favor another—it means lifting everyone by addressing unfair imbalances.

At UNADEV, we include men and boys in our conversations and workshops, helping entire communities understand that equity benefits all.

How You Can Support the Movement

The fight for gender equity is far from over, but you can help.

• Donate to fund scholarships, training programs, and awareness campaigns.

• Volunteer your time or skills to empower youth and women.

• Partner with us to build programs that foster lasting change.

? Bank Details for Donations
Société de Banque Cameroon – SCB Cameroon
IBAN: CM21 10002 00063 9000165087746

For inquiries or collaboration:
? Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
? +237 679 41 34 11
? info@unadevcameroon.com

Conclusion: A Fairer Future Starts Today

Gender equity is not just a women’s issue—it’s a human issue. At UNADEV, we are working tirelessly to create a world where every girl, every woman, and every person has the chance to thrive, regardless of the circumstances they were born into.

Change begins with awareness—and grows with action. Join us. Stand with us. Give hope a future.